Though Social Security benefits have long been a successful federal safety net for millions of Americans, some lawmakers and policy analysts believe the only way to save it from inevitable bankruptcy is to privatize the system.

Uncertainty about making the right retirement moves is rife among the vast baby boomer generation. With 10,000 boomers turning 65 every day for the next 18 years, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, one thing that isn’t being downsized is concern about where and when to retire.

Parents and students have an array of options for financing education costs, including private loans from banks, tapping home equity credit lines and dipping into retirement accounts. However, the quest to provide a better life for their children can create a lager financial mess for the parents.